Description
The Drakensberg is South Africa's longest and highest mountain range, extending from the Eastern Cape the length of the country to Mpumalanga. It's rugged peaks and sheer cliffs form an impressive display against the skyline. Hiking in the Drakensberg is not for the inexperienced. Although the altitudes are not extreme the weather is extremely unpredictable, and mist and rain can cover the mountains in a matter of minutes, causing disorientation. On the positive side, the hiking in the Drakensberg is extremely rewarding, with spectacular sunrises above the clouds and magnificent views, it's wilderness hiking at it's best. Our guides have traversed the many trails across the Drakensberg, and have years of experience in guiding and mountain rescue. We have hand-picked our two favourite trails to feature, and hope you will soon be joining us in the Drakensberg.
Highlights
- Climbing the chainladder up onto the summit
- Visiting the Tugela Falls
- Spectacular views of Maweni Cutback
- Sunrise above the clouds
- Visiting Mponjwana Peak
Sample ItineraryDay 1
Depart from Johannesburg and travel by road to the Northern
Berg region. The drive takes approximately 4 hours.
Leave the vehicle at Sentinel car park. Start the trail
at midday from the car park at an altitude of 2556m
on a good path. Hike for 5kms to the top of the Drakensberg
via the chain ladder and set up camp at Tugela Falls(2972m).
The Tugela Falls is the world’s second highest
waterfall at 850m and has spectacular views.
Day 2
After an early breakfast, trek southwards over easy
undulating grassland to your next campsite at Icidi
Pass area. The day’s hike covers approximately
15km. Camp at an altitude of 3000m.
Day 3
Today’s hike takes you around the back of the
Mweni Cutback. The trail has amazing views of the cutback,
including the Hanging Gardens and Mweni Pinnacles. Continue
onto Ledgers Cave where you’ll be staying overnight.
The cave is on the edge of the Drakensberg with a 1000m
drop below. The day’s hike is approximately 16km.
Day 4
An easy walk of approximately 18km’s, the trail
takes you up to view the Drakensberg’s longest-rock
climb on the mighty Mponjwana Peak. Hike up Koakoatsoan
valley and over highest point on the trip, 3160m before
descending to Twins Cave. (2700m)
Day 5
Your last day on the trail takes you down Mlambonjwa
Pass to Cathedral Peak Hotel at 1450m. Arrive at hotel
at about 2pm. The trails is approximately 11km along
a steep rough path. Check into the hotel where you will
be staying over night. The rest of the day is at leisure
to relax and rest the weary muscles.
Day 6
After breakfast check out of the hotel. The tour ends
with a transfer back to Johannesburg.
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